How do you file a medical malpractice claim?

You've been hurt because of your doctor's negligence, so you want to file a medical malpractice claim. You know that each state is different, so what do you have to do to file a claim in Connecticut?

It's a good idea to work with your attorney when you want to file a claim, because medical malpractice cases can become complicated. Connecticut requires a certificate of good faith to be filed with any medical malpractice lawsuit, so you will need to obtain one before you can file your claim.

Do patients and the public know about physician profiles before treatments?

Yes. In Connecticut, patients and the public have access to physician profiles. These profiles include important information on the medical provider's background and licensing. If there were adverse licensure actions in Connecticut or other states, you'll be able to find that information as well.

Why is that important? If you do your research before seeking medical care, there is a chance you can see if a medical provider has been the center of malpractice claims or licensing issues in the past. If you did look and did not see any problems in the past, then it can be helpful in choosing an appropriate medical provider.

The doctor apologized to you, but is that an admission of guilt?

An apology is now allowed to be made in Connecticut without being an admission of guilt. An apology can't be admitted into evidence as admission of liability for a medical mistake. If your doctor does admit making an error in other situations, those admissions could be admitted, depending on the case, so it's important to let your attorney know.

The use of the Internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Confidential or time-sensitive information should not be sent through this form.

*AV Preeminent is a certification mark of Reed Elsevier Properties Inc., used in accordance with the Martindale-Hubbell certification procedures, standards and policies. Martindale-Hubbell is the facilitator of a peer review rating process. Ratings reflect the confidential opinions of members of the Bar and the judiciary. Martindale-Hubbell ratings fall into two categories - legal ability and general ethical standards.